A practice field at Memorial South Park in Vancouver is set to be off-limits due to the construction of a training facility. This decision has sparked concerns among the park board and residents alike. B.C. Place Stadium is hosting seven games during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, estimated to cost around $581 million. As part of the preparations, host cities need to provide training sites that meet FIFA guidelines, including natural grass, privacy, and no sightlines. A motion was presented to park board commissioners on Monday night to start construction at Memorial South and Killarney parks in South Vancouver. Staff emphasized the time sensitivity of the motion and the potential legal ramifications if it was not approved.

Residents' Outrage and Lack of Consultation

The South Vancouver community was in an uproar over the construction, especially at Memorial South Park on Ross Street. Residents claimed they would lose a valuable walking track and green space for over two years. Those who spoke at the Monday meeting were furious about what they perceived as a lack of consultation. It was revealed that some legal contracts were signed back in March 2022, before the current commissioners were elected. Cindy Heinrichs from the Friends of Memorial South group said, "To hear you say that this was a done deal two years ago, I don't feel like I live in a democracy at this point. Why are we here?" 2: The residents' opposition was strong, with more than a dozen speaking out against the motion. Some cited the loss of the walking track in Memorial South Park as particularly painful. As one resident put it, "To my mind, that track is the most important part of that park."

Park Board's Dilemma and Forced Votes

Given the legal ramifications, many park board commissioners only reluctantly voted in favor of the motion. Some even abstained from voting to start construction at Memorial South Park. Commissioner Brennan Bastyovanszky said, "I feel that the obligations we have in front of us are unfortunate. My hand is being forced." Commissioner Laura Christensen only recently learned that the funding provided would only cover the bare minimum of construction and not facilities that could benefit the community in the long run. 2: Commissioner Tom Digby pressed city staff for alternatives. He pointed to the training facility at the University of B.C. used by the Canada men's national team and the Vancouver Whitecaps. He argued that the current plan was a "joke facility" and that other cities were using major facilities recognized for their quality. He said the UBC facility "solves almost all the concerns that we've heard tonight."

Amendments and Future Plans

Commissioners passed amendments to ensure that no trees would be felled until the UBC option was explored. They also prioritized the parks in future capital plans beyond 2026. With the motion passed, construction is set to start on Jan. 2. This decision will have a significant impact on the parks and the community for years to come. 2: The construction of the FIFA World Cup training facilities in Vancouver parks is a complex issue that has raised many questions and concerns. The park board and residents will need to work together to find the best solutions and ensure that the parks are preserved for future generations.